Do You Inhale Cigars? How to Smoke a Cigar Like a Pro

Smoking a cigar is more than a pastime—it’s a ceremony of relaxation, storytelling, and indulgence. Unlike the fast pace of modern life, enjoying a cigar invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and immerse yourself in tradition. 

Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your technique, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to smoke a cigar, including addressing the hotly debated question: Do you inhale cigars?

Why Smoke a Cigar?

Cigars are symbols of celebration, relaxation, and luxury. Unlike cigarettes, cigars are designed for slow, deliberate enjoyment. Smoking a cigar is an opportunity to unwind, immerse yourself in rich aromas, and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every roll.

If you’re wondering whether cigars are for you, start by exploring the differences between cigars and cigarettes in our blog: Cigars vs. Cigarettes.

But what sets cigars apart?

• Rich Flavors and Aromas: A cigar offers complex flavors that develop as you smoke.
• Craftsmanship: Each cigar is a masterpiece, handcrafted with precision.
• A Social Experience: Cigars bring people together, fostering camaraderie and shared stories.

Do You Inhale Cigars?

The short answer is no. Cigars are not meant to be inhaled. Instead, the smoke is drawn into the mouth, swirled to enjoy the flavor, and then exhaled.

Why Not?

1. Harshness: Cigar smoke is denser and more potent than cigarette smoke, which can cause discomfort or even nausea if inhaled.
2. Flavor Appreciation: The essence of cigar smoking lies in savoring the flavors and aromas, which are best experienced in your mouth.
3. Nicotine Absorption: Even without inhaling, cigars deliver a significant nicotine hit through the lining of your mouth.

By focusing on puffing, you can fully enjoy the cigar-smoking experience without compromising comfort or taste.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Cigar

Selecting the right cigar is the cornerstone of a great smoking experience. Start by visiting a reputable cigar lounge or store where experts can guide you. If you're just beginning, opt for a mild cigar with a Connecticut wrapper, which offers smooth and gentle flavors.

Considerations When Choosing a Cigar

• Size and Shape (Vitola): Smaller cigars burn faster, while larger ones allow for a longer, more relaxing session.
• Robusto: Short and thick, offering a rich, quick smoke.
• Churchill: Long and slender, ideal for extended sessions.
• Toro: A balanced option for beginners and experts alike.
• Wrapper Type: The wrapper greatly influences the flavor profile.
• Connecticut: Mild and creamy, perfect for beginners.
• Maduro: Dark and rich, offering bold, sweet flavors.
• Strength: Beginners should start with mild cigars to ease into the experience, while seasoned smokers might gravitate toward medium or full-bodied options.

Where to Store Your Cigars

Invest in a cigar humidor cabinet to keep your cigars fresh, aromatic, and ready to smoke. A properly maintained humidor ensures the right humidity levels, preventing your cigars from drying out.

Step 2: Cutting the Cigar

Before you can light your cigar, you need to cut it properly. The cap, located at the closed end of the cigar, must be removed to allow airflow.

Cutting a cigar is essential to ensuring a smooth draw and preserving its structure. Here’s how:

1. Choose Your Cutter: A sharp guillotine or V-cutter works best.
2. Identify the Cap: The cap is the closed, rounded end of the cigar.
3. Make a Clean Cut: Slice just above the cap’s shoulder to avoid unraveling the wrapper.

If you don’t have a cutter handy, learn alternative methods in our blog: How to Cut a Cigar Without a Cutter.

Step 3: Lighting Your Cigar

Lighting a cigar is an art in itself. The goal is to achieve an even burn, which enhances the smoking experience.

Tools for Lighting

• Torch Lighter: Provides a concentrated flame, ideal for outdoors.
• Wooden Matches: Avoids chemical interference from lighter fluid.

How to Light a Cigar

1. Toast the Foot: Hold the flame just below the foot of the cigar, rotating it to warm the tobacco.
2. Light the Cigar: Puff gently while bringing the flame closer, ensuring an even cherry forms.
3. Avoid Overheating: Direct contact with the flame can scorch the tobacco, creating bitterness.

Step 4: Smoking a Cigar

Now comes the enjoyable part—smoking your cigar. Follow these steps to make the most of your experience.

How to Puff a Cigar

1. Draw the smoke into your mouth without inhaling.
2. Let the flavors linger for a few seconds.
3. Exhale gently, savoring the aroma.

Tips for a Better Smoking Experience

• Pace Yourself: Take slow, steady puffs, about one per minute. This allows the cigar to cool between puffs, preserving its flavors.
• Rotate the Cigar: This prevents uneven burning and tunneling. 
• Stay Relaxed: Cigar smoking is meant to be a leisurely activity.

If you’re curious about the effects of cigar smoking, check out our blog: Do Cigars Give You a Buzz?

Step 5: Managing the Ash

The ash on the end of your cigar serves a purpose—it insulates the burn, helping the cigar maintain an even temperature. Let it grow to about an inch before tapping it off gently. Avoid frequent ash-tapping, as it can disrupt the cigar’s temperature.

For a cleaner and more elegant smoking experience, consider using a premium ashtray designed specifically for cigars, which offers ample space and stability for your smokes.

Step 6: When to Stop Smoking

Knowing when to end your cigar is part of the experience. A cigar is typically smoked until about two inches remain. If you’re no longer enjoying it or the flavors turn bitter, feel free to set it down in the ashtray and let it extinguish naturally.

Advanced Tips for Cigar Enthusiasts

Pairing Cigars with Drinks

The right beverage can enhance your cigar-smoking experience. Popular pairings include:

• Single Malt Whiskey: Complements bold cigars.
• Dark Roast Coffee: Pairs well with mild or medium-bodied cigars.
• Bold Red Wine: Adds depth to full-bodied cigars.

Maintaining Your Cigar Collection

Protect your cigars from drying out with a humidor humidifier. For commercial settings, consider cigar lockers which provide secure storage and precise humidity control, making them ideal for cigar lounges, shops, and other professional environments.

Improve Your Smoking Environment

For indoor smokers, a smoke eater or air purifier is essential to maintain air quality and eliminate lingering odors.

Cigar Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

Cigar smoking often takes place in social settings, so observing proper etiquette is crucial:

• Do: Share your cigars with friends—it’s a time-honored tradition.
• Don’t: Blow smoke directly toward others.
• Do: Respect the smoking rules of the venue.
• Don’t: Stub out your cigar like a cigarette. Instead, let it extinguish naturally.

Craft Your Cigar Story

Cigar smoking is a timeless tradition that blends craftsmanship, relaxation, and personal expression. Whether you’re selecting your first cigar or refining your technique, the journey is uniquely yours.

With the right tools and knowledge, you can elevate your cigar-smoking experience to an art form. So next time you light up, savor each puff, immerse yourself in the moment, and let your cigar tell its story.

For more resources on elevating your cigar experience, explore our collections of cigar humidors and accessories. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned aficionado, there’s always more to discover in the world of cigars.